There are such a lot of issues to do in Zakynthos (Zante) and I’m going to share our high 15 favourites on this submit. This island is unquestionably the most effective locations to go to in Greece.
If you hear the title Greece, it seemingly conjures up pictures of the white sand seashores of Crete, the stone pillars of the Acropolis in Athens, or the whitewashed buildings of Santorini.
However, there are over 6,000 islands in Greece to select from, and Zakynthos is a small hidden gem amongst them.
☞ On the lookout for Seashores? Try our listing of the Prime 15 Seashores In Zakynthos You Gained’t Need To Miss.
Many travellers from the UK and elements of Europe have already found this Ionian magnificence, which lies west of mainland Greece, however for North People and travellers from different elements of the world, this could possibly be the primary time you’re listening to about it.
Observe: this submit was final up to date in 2023. We preserve all of our Greece content material as up-to-date as attainable. To be taught extra about Greece journey, take a look at our Greece Journey Information.
Blessed with a jagged shoreline, picturesque villages, a hilly inside, and some of the finest seashores in Greece (specifically Navagio Seashore), Zakynthos rapidly grew to become considered one of our favorite islands within the nation.
Sufficiently small to simply navigate by automotive, however massive sufficient to supply a range of landscapes, villages and coastlines, this Ionian island ought to characteristic prominently in your subsequent Greek Itinerary.
On this article, I’m going to listing 15 of the most effective issues to do in Zakynthos with the intention to get an concept of what’s on provide right here.
You’ll discover that lots of the issues to do in Zakynthos are beach-related, as that is what the island is finest identified for.
You gained’t discover the historical past of Crete, the cool structure that’s well-known on Santorini, or the tradition and cities of islands like Lesvos, Chios and Corfu, however “Zante” affords the right stress-free vacation spot for these within the know.
💡Bonus Tip: automotive rental in Greece could be very cheap and positively value it at some stage in your keep. For those who lease for 1 week, you’ll seemingly pay not more than $20 / day (we paid $17) and it will provide you with the liberty to see the entire sights on this submit.
Observe: Click on the maps to open in Google Maps
1. Navagio Seashore (Shipwreck Cove)
Okay, let’s begin with the primary attraction on the island and presumably probably the most photographed web site in all the nation. This gorgeous stretch of white sand and impossibly blue water is protected by a pure harbour with terrifyingly tall 200-meter-high cliffs on 3 sides.
Set smack dab in the course of the sand is a decaying ship. A (false) rumor has it that this was a tobacco smuggler’s ship that crashed into the seaside throughout a storm, when in actuality it’s only a cargo boat that ran ashore.
Whether or not you consider the romantic story or not doesn’t matter, the large ship resting on the sand positively provides to the attraction and attract of this spectacular sight.
There are two methods to see Navagio Seashore, both by sea or from the highest of the cliffs. There aren’t any roads main on to the sand, so to swim within the water and see the shipwreck up shut, you’ll need to take a ship tour.
These may be employed from completely different cities across the island. In case you have a automotive, then your least expensive choice might be to drive to the closest cove to Navagio Seashore and hop on a ship from there.
In Porto Vromi (simply south of Navagio) you possibly can take a ship tour to Shipwreck Cove for round $30 per particular person. Study extra concerning the tour right here.
To see it from above (extremely advisable), you’ll need to drive your automotive to the viewing platform on the north finish of the island.
It’s very easy to get right here by automotive as there are indicators in every single place and it’s well-marked on Google Maps (Click on Right here for the precise location). The car parking zone is correct subsequent to the platform, so you possibly can drive proper up, get out of your automotive, snap a couple of pictures after which drive off.
Please word: The perfect views are from the cliffs to the proper of the platform and you might even see some folks clambering alongside them to take the right selfie. Vacationers have lately died falling off of those rocks and it’s not advisable to enterprise past the platform. These cliffs are over 200 meters excessive and a slip is bound to be deadly. Keep on the platform.
2. Sundown Dinner & Drinks at Lofos Restaurant
Indisputably, this small, Greek-run restaurant has the most effective views of Zakynthos’ rugged inside. Decide a desk alongside the deck and peer over the cliff down in direction of the farmlands beneath and the Ionian Sea within the distance.
The meals right here is unbelievable, the service is nice and it’s the right place for sundown. I like to recommend the roast lamb (€9) and the meat stew (€8). Each are completely scrumptious. Beers are round €2.5 and appetizers are simply €4 every.
Often, at a spot like this, it’s a must to pay additional for the meals as a result of the view is so good, however that’s not the case at Lofos.
You’ll additionally seemingly get a free dessert, so it’s possible you’ll not need to order one!
We did a complete overview of Lofos Restaurant so should you’re considering of heading there for dinner or late afternoon drinks, you should definitely test it out. Discover it on the map, right here. For one more sundown choice, don’t miss this glorious tour.
3. Xigia Seashore
One other extremely scenic seaside on the island of Zakynthos.
This secluded cove is guarded on three sides by massive cliffs, the water is gorgeous and there’s even a sulfur scorching spring right here (which explains the unusual odor).
Try our full overview of Xigia Seashore together with tips on how to get there, close by eating places and extra.
4. Snorkel / Dive (With Turtles)
The reefs and seashores round Zakynthos are house to one of many oldest lifeforms on Earth, the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. This stunning creature may be noticed within the Zakynthos Marine Park or coming ashore to put eggs within the night on many bays (even widespread ones) round Zakynthos and surrounding islands.
You’re prone to spot a turtle in some unspecified time in the future throughout your journey to Zakynthos, however to higher your probabilities it’s best to positively hop on a ship and go discover them.
Ensure you do your analysis and go along with an organization that practices secure snorkelling with animals.
For those who see 10 boats pulling up alongside one turtle with tons of of individuals leaping in without delay, it’s best to inform the information that you simply don’t approve. This stresses out the animals and might trigger hurt to the ecosystems.
You gained’t simply see Turtles within the Ionian Sea both! There are many gentle and laborious corals, in addition to fish and crustacean life that discover a house within the rocky underwater topography close to Zakynthos.
You possibly can be part of diving and snorkelling excursions with many clothes shops on the island. Most cost round €50 for one dive with tools and round €30 per particular person for a full day snorkel journey with tools rent. You possibly can normally get reductions for big teams or for a number of journeys.
5. Go to The Venetian Fort
For those who can peel your self away from the seaside for a couple of hours, it’s possible you’ll need to take into account visiting the previous ruins of the Venetian Fort. A go to right here is likely one of the finest issues to do in Zakynthos city.
The Ionian Islands have been occupied by the Turks, French, British, Venetians, and Russians at one time, however the Venetians left behind a number of the most imposing websites within the type of fortresses on Zakynthos, Kefalonia and Corfu.
The fortress right here isn’t as spectacular as that of Assos Fort in Kefalonia, nevertheless it’s nonetheless value a go to should you’re already close to Zante City.
The precise date of its development continues to be unknown, nevertheless it was destroyed by the invading Turks in 1480, however then restored in 1515.
At present it stands as a testomony to the previous glory of Zakynthos as a Venetian army stronghold and guests can stroll via an previous jail, gunpowder rooms, bastions, church buildings and an previous sewage system.
For those who plan to go to the fortress, take a look at our submit about Visiting The Venetian Fort in Zakynthos Greece to get an concept of what to anticipate.
6. Alykes Seashore: Certainly one of The Most Chilled Out Issues To Do in Zakynthos
This was our favorite seaside on the island, partly as a result of it was one of the stunning stretches of powdery golden sand that we discovered, but in addition as a result of it was the place we discovered our favorite seaside bar on all the island, Porto Paradiso.
This place had scrumptious meals (with a couple of Greek choices), glorious service and low-cost beers and cocktails, plus they allow us to sit on the seaside chairs at no cost after we ordered from the restaurant or bar.
The view out in direction of the sunshine blue water of the Ionian Sea is to die for and the water is deep sufficient to swim just some meters from shore. It’s actually laborious to beat a seaside like this!
Try our whole submit all about Alykes Seashore to search out out extra about the most effective eating places and bars, the place to remain and what to do round Alykes Seashore.
7. The Cliffs of Keri
This place on the southwest finish of the island is all concerning the views. You possibly can park your automotive proper subsequent to the cliffs and stroll out on the rocks for beautiful views out over the impossibly blue sea and (generally) turtles down beneath.
There’s additionally a stunning lighthouse close by and the city of Keri itself can also be value a go to.
The Keri Cliffs are additionally the most effective sundown spots on the island as (on a transparent day) you possibly can watch the large orb kiss the ocean on the horizon because the sky lights up with good oranges, reds and purples.
You can too be part of a ship tour which takes within the Keri Caves in addition to turtle recognizing.
Try our submit all concerning the village of Keri Zakynthos which incorporates the most effective issues to do just like the Keri Lighthouse and the Keri Cliffs, in addition to locations to remain and eat in and across the city.
8. Boat Tour in Zante – Certainly one of The Coolest Issues To Do in Zakynthos
We did a non-public boat tour (with captain) across the island and it was a number of enjoyable! This non-public boat journey with a driver takes off from Porto Vromi and heads to Hidden Treasure Cave for swimming, adopted by Sfogio Seashore, White Seashore, Porto Steniti, the Secret Blue Cave, and Coronary heart Cave.
As a result of it’s a non-public journey, you possibly can ask your captain to cease wherever you need.
For those who’re snug driving a ship, another choice is to lease your personal boat and drive across the shoreline your self!
On account of heavy winds and excessive waves, you in all probability gained’t be capable of take the boat to Shipwreck Cove, however you possibly can rip round to completely different bays, anchor up and swim with no person else round. That is positively the most effective issues to do in Zakynthos.
We ended up doing this on Corfu Island and it was actually the most effective days we had in Greece. For those who plan to do that in Zakynthos, take a look at this firm.
For those who plan to deliver snacks and refreshments on the boat with you, then you definitely may as properly choose up a small foam cooler from the grocery retailer for about €10 – €15. Then you possibly can have some ice-cold beers and lunch when you’re floating out at sea!
You don’t want a license to lease considered one of these small (40HP+) boats, nevertheless it’s advisable that you’ve a little bit of expertise driving boats, although it’s not needed as a result of the captains on the store will present you the ropes.
These boats are the right measurement for two – 4 folks and should you cut up the associated fee, it’s extraordinarily reasonably priced, particularly contemplating Jetskis and Sea-doos normally lease for $50 / hour in different elements of the world!
For those who choose up the boat from the Keri Harbour, then you possibly can drive the boat across the south, east and west finish of the island. Ensure you cease in on Turtle island for a swim on a surprising seaside. We actually can’t advocate this sufficient! Click on right here for a high firm, or click on right here to take a look at the boat choices with Luxurious Island Occasions.
9. Gerakas Seashore – The Most Stress-free Factor To Do in Zante
Pronounced (Yer-ak-as), this stunning stretch of sand within the far southeastern finish of the island is the right place to chill out for the afternoon.
The sand here’s a reddish color and so are the encircling cliffs, however the water is crystal clear and it’s comparatively quiet right here.
You possibly can lease reclining seaside chairs for €4 every, however there isn’t a meals or drinks served on the seaside because it’s a marine-protected space (turtles come right here to nest infrequently).
If you would like any snacks or refreshments, it’s finest to purchase them from the retailers on the high of the hill earlier than strolling down the steps to the seaside.
The water right here could be very shallow however will get deep sufficient to swim about 100 meters out from shore. Chillin’ out on seaside chairs right here is likely one of the most stress-free issues to do in Zante.
We wrote a submit all about Gerakas Seashore, tips on how to get there, the place to remain, the most effective eating places within the space and so on., so should you’re planning on going to this beautiful seaside throughout your keep in Zakynthos, ensure you test that out.
10. Porto Limnionas
That is positively one of the scenic coves on the island, and on an island blessed with numerous picturesque bays, that’s actually saying so much.
Limnionas is a deep pure harbour surrounded by multicoloured cliffs and a number of the clearest water you’ll see. The inexperienced rocks replicate the solar from beneath and lightweight the ocean up like an aquarium.
You possibly can chill out on the Limnionas Tavern and select from dozens of sunbeds (€4 every) hanging over the sting of the rocks trying down in direction of the ocean.
The tavern right here serves up fairly priced meals, chilly beer and attractive drinks. In our expertise, the meals was not that nice, however the view is excellent, so it’s an excellent place for a drink.
Try our submit all about visiting Porto Limnionas for extra info on the most effective eating places close by, tips on how to get right here, when to return and what to anticipate.
11. Zante City
Positively not probably the most scenic metropolis in all of Greece, Zakynthos (Zante) City might not instantly attraction guests, nevertheless it does have its personal native flare.
There are quite a few eating places right here, a couple of pedestrian-only streets, and an exquisite seafront promenade that faces a pure harbour crammed with parked ferries, fishing boats and sailboats.
There are a few massive open plazas and loads of retailers and markets. Most of what you’ll ever want may be discovered right here.
We didn’t hear many constructive issues about Zante City previous to visiting, however we really actually loved strolling round this seaside capital.
Try our Information to Zante City which incorporates all the pieces it’s worthwhile to learn about visiting this stunning Ionian Capital together with the place to remain, the most effective eating places, the most effective close by seashores and tips on how to get there and away.
12. Porto Azzuro
Yet one more breathtaking cove, Porto Azzuro is a superb place to relax out for the afternoon.
There’s a cluster of rocks within the water on the south finish of the seaside that makes for nice snorkelling and glorious pictures. The water right here takes on a greenish-blue hue and there’s an honest (however overpriced) seaside bar right here referred to as Porto Azzuro Seashore Bar.
You’ll need to pay for sunbeds (€5 / day) even should you select to eat on the bar. Deliver a towel and lay it within the sand at no cost and revel in a calming afternoon.
For those who order meals, you possibly can sit on the eating tables at no cost within the restaurant and look out on the gorgeous view over the bay, simply not the sunbeds.
For extra about visiting this beautiful cove, take a look at our Porto Azzuro Information which incorporates tips on how to get right here, the place to eat, the most effective time to go to the seaside and extra.
13. Banana Seashore
One other lengthy stretch of golden sand, just some hundred meters south of Porto Azurro, Banana Seashore has a greater (and extra reasonably priced) seaside bar on a hill overlooking the bay.
The seaside itself may not be as scenic as Porto Azurro on a transparent day, however the sand right here is gentle and there are sunbeds for lease as properly.
There’s a free shuttle bus from the city of Argassi to Banana Seashore, leaving the city at 10:45 am and returning at 4:00 pm.
Try our submit all about Banana Seashore together with the most effective locations to remain, the most effective eating places, tips on how to get right here and extra.
14. Sundown Dinner at Taverna Psarou
One other glorious spot for a meal, Taverna Psarou is about simply inches from the sand of Psarou Seashore.
The seaside itself has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness for ten years operating, however at first look, it’s nothing to write down house about.
For us, it was the setting of this tiny, family-run tavern, the most effective on the island, that made Psarou value lingering for.
The meals is sweet, the costs are first rate and the service is superb.
Because the solar dips low within the sky and the clouds mild up, the employees mild small candles on the tables.
Consuming with the sound of the Ionian Sea lapping up on the sand simply meters out of your desk is what makes this spot so wonderful. Sundown dinner right here is likely one of the most romantic issues to do in Zakynthos.
Not many individuals come right here, so it’s a hidden gem on the island.
For those who’re heading this fashion on the island, take a look at our submit all about Psarou which included the most effective resorts, finest eating places close by, issues to do and extra.
15. Low cost Cocktails at Tsilivi Seashore
Tsilivi Seashore is an extended and wonderful stretch of sand with a number of seaside bars spilling out in direction of the water.
The seaside itself is gorgeous and that is probably the most occurring spot on the east coast. We extremely advocate chilling on the seaside chairs close to Andreolas Luxurious Suites and having some low-cost (€2) cocktails from their seaside bar!
For those who’re questioning what to do in Zakynthos, head to this seaside for a day of leisure, swimming and cocktails.
The city of Tsilivi additionally has a number of eating places together with a couple of of our favourites. Click on Right here to learn our submit about Tsilivi Seashore which incorporates the most effective locations to eat and drink in addition to another traveller ideas.
There’s additionally extra about this beautiful little city on the backside of this submit
16. Bonus! Cooking Class
Everyone knows that the meals in Greece is a number of the finest on the earth. So, why not discover ways to make a number of the unimaginable dishes throughout your journey to Zakynthos?!
This extremely rated, reasonably priced cooking class teaches you tips on how to make a frappe (iced espresso) or Greek espresso, Stiffado, varied facet dishes together with spinach and feta pie, and a masterclass demonstration on tips on how to make filo pastry. Plus, there’s a wine tasting!
It is a hands-on cooking expertise. After making your entire scrumptious dishes, you’ll head to an exquisite shaded backyard to benefit from the meal, together with some dialog along with your host and different visitors.
Studying tips on how to make Greek meals is likely one of the finest issues to do in Zakynthos for foodies. Discover out extra about this enjoyable class, right here.
Extra About Zakynthos (Zante)
☞ Click on right here to see advisable excursions out there on Zakynthos
The place To Keep on Zakynthos Island
It’s all about low-cost residences in Zakynthos. We had an exquisite, newly renovated studio with a sea and olive grove view at Katerina Rooms close to Psarou and it value us simply €20 per night time. You’ll find a ton of different reasonably priced locations (particularly within the shoulder/low season) on Reserving.com.
Finest Eating places on Zakynthos Island
We’ve already listed a pair on this submit, however listed below are our favourites:
Getting Round Zakynthos
As I discussed earlier, it’s important that you simply lease a automotive when you’re on Zakynthos Island should you hope to see the entire sights on this article.
We rented our automotive with Expedia and opted out of the prolonged insurance coverage, which meant that the automotive value us simply $17 / day.
You possibly can take minibusses to some elements of the island, however you’ll have to attend on the highway for them to return, and so they don’t go in every single place.
For those who’re taking a couple of buses every single day, the prices add up anyhow. Even should you’re on a finances, we advocate splurging for a automotive on the entire Greek islands.
Now You Know What To Do in Zakynthos
This island was an actual shock for us. We hadn’t even heard of it earlier than we booked our low-cost flight from London and headed there for 9 days, however we cherished it.
Zante has tons of of low-cost residences out there, and whereas there’s not as a lot historical past and native tradition as the opposite Ionian Islands, it nonetheless has so much to supply guests, particularly these seeking to laze on stunning seashores and eat scrumptious Greek meals.
It is probably not a historical past buff’s paradise, however there are a lot of issues to do and it’s the right vacation spot for these seeking to chill out and soak within the solar.
READ MORE:
Try our Zakynthos Journey Video
An enormous thank-you to Uncover Greece and Luxurious Island Occasions for placing collectively our afternoon on the ocean! Seeing the shoreline and close by islands by boat was a unbelievable expertise 😀